New fall shows create entertainment options

Ranging from romantic comedies to suspense, this fall has brought an abundance of new television series.

“Selfie”: This sitcom is taking society’s current obsession with social media to an extreme.  Take the main character, Eliza Dooley, an “Instagram-famous” social networking fiend, for instance. The opening episode depicts Eliza as overwhelmingly addicted to technology, with few interpersonal skills outside of her bedroom. In what seems like a disingenuous, desperate need to change her “image,” she befriends Henry Higgs, an uptight businessman — the complete opposite of Eliza. Together, they attempt to change Eliza’s ways by making her classier and empathetic, as well as helping her find things of substance to value. Although the overall message of this show is relevant, its crude humor and “over-acting” make it difficult to really connect with or care about the characters. I recommend this when you have nothing to do at home and Netflix just isn’t an option.

“Scorpion”: This show is loosely based on the true story of genius Walter O’Brien, who has an IQ of 197. He is paired with three other geniuses, each possessing a different skill-set. One is called a “human calculator,” for he is a math genius, another is called a “world-class shrink,” because he is highly versed in behavioral analysis and lastly, a “mechanical prodigy,” a mechanical engineer. Although this group is full of social outcasts, they work together to solve complex world problems in this suspenseful drama.

“Red Band Society”: Centering around teenagers living in a large hospital, Red Band Society has created an appealing way to experience the difficulties of living with illness. Unlike most hospital-based shows, this one focuses on building a connection between the patients and the viewers. The focus isn’t on pity or sadness, but on the bond that forms between people of all different backgrounds in a time of crisis. The first episode had a surprising beginning: it was introduced by a boy in a coma, Charlie. As other characters are introduced, their distinct characteristics and personalities are developed. All characters appear to be original, except for Kara Soulders, whose role is the stereotypical “popular mean girl.” “Red Band Society” does a great job of creating strong emotions. This heart-wrenching yet rewarding drama is a must-see.

“A to Z”: Yet another new romantic comedy sitcom has received praise. This show centers around a relationship between Zelda and Andrew that consists of both immense awkwardness and touching sweetness. Similarly to the movie “500 Days of Summer,” the show is an in-depth account of the failed relationship between Andrew and Zelda that spanned a little over eight months. Though this show may lack originality, it is an entertaining watch for all.

“Bad Judge”: This is a new raunchy comedy following a female judge and her promiscuous life. This show is particularly uncomfortable to watch, because although it is humorous, it creates a mockery of the legal system and what it stands for. Even though the first few episodes have included some moral messages, such as taking time to find who you are, it is difficult to take it seriously because the protagonist is full of hypocrisy. This is because it is particularly hard to feel empathy for someone who is supposed to stand for justice, yet participates in activities that are completely immoral and sometimes illegal as well.

 

When to Watch:

“Selfie”: Tuesdays @ 8 p.m.

“Scorpion”: Mondays @ 9 p.m.

“Red Band Society”: Wednesdays @ 9 p.m.

“A to Z”: Thursdays @ 9:30 p.m.

“Bad Judge”: Thursdays @ 9 p.m.